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Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Managed Staffing

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$50 - $56/hr

Mechanical Engineer Location: Onsite - Irvine, CA Shift: 1st Shift US Citizenship Required About ... and defense applications. This role involves hands-on engineering work, design reviews ...

Roush

Mechanical Engineer I

Allen Park, MI

Job Summary The Mechanical Engineer I will perform broad entry-level work on a variety of ... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 4,000 employees in facilities ...

GRAEF

Mechanical Engineer P1 - Entry Level

Orlando, FL · On-site

As an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer at GRAEF, enjoy responsibilities that include: * Design and analyze HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems for various types of facilities. * Coordinate ...

Combined Systems Inc

$70K - $85K/yr

Mechanical Engineer Summary The Mechanical Engineer supports the design, development, testing, and ... Join a global defense and U.S. Military supplier that has been operating successfully since 1981.

ROUSH

Mechanical Engineer I

Livonia, MI · On-site

... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... The entry level role will work on projects for large and small customers with aggressive timelines.

ROUSH

Mechanical Engineer I

Allen Park, MI · On-site

... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... Job Summary The Mechanical Engineer I will perform broad entry-level work on a variety of ...

Acara Solutions

Mechanical Engineer

Pittsfield, MA · Hybrid

$50.08 - $59.22/hr

Defense Compensation: $50.08- $59.22/ hour About the Opportunity: Join a mission-critical engineering team supporting advanced U.S. Navy Surface Ship programs. As a Mechanical Engineer, you'll help ...

ROUSH

Mechanical Engineer I

Allen Park, MI · On-site

... the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities ... Job Summary The Mechanical Engineer I will perform broad entry-level work on a variety of ...

Mach Industries

Mechanical Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$105K - $180K/yr

About Mach Industries Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology ... The Role Mach Industries is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our team in designing ...

Chariot Defense

Mechanical Engineer

San Bruno, CA

About the Role Chariot Defense is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering team, reporting to the Powertrain Lead Engineer. In this role, you will ...

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Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer information

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$17

$33

$54

How much do entry level defense mechanical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level defense mechanical engineer in the United States is $33.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.92 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and tasks can an Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks that support the design, analysis, and testing of military equipment and systems. Typical responsibilities include creating and modifying CAD models, assisting with prototype fabrication, conducting performance tests, and preparing technical documentation. You will often collaborate closely with senior engineers, cross-functional teams, and suppliers to solve engineering challenges and ensure projects meet strict safety and quality standards. This hands-on experience provides a solid foundation for future advancement within the defense industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), engineering simulation tools, and understanding of industry standards like ASME or MIL-STD is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills are crucial for collaborating on complex defense projects. These skills and qualifications are vital for delivering innovative, reliable solutions while meeting rigorous safety and performance standards in defense environments.

What does an Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer do?

An Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and components used in defense applications, such as vehicles, weapon systems, and support equipment. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping to create technical drawings, perform simulations, and ensure products meet strict safety and quality standards. Their work often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams and adhering to government regulations and security protocols. This role provides hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology and opportunities to grow within the defense industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer vs Entry Level Aerospace Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Defense Mechanical EngineerEntry Level Aerospace Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, security clearance often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, security clearance may be required
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government agencies, military facilitiesAerospace companies, aircraft manufacturers, government aerospace agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in defense and military sectorsPrimarily in aerospace and aviation sectors

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and may involve security clearances. While they share similar work environments and employer types, defense mechanical engineers focus on military applications, whereas aerospace mechanical engineers specialize in aircraft and spacecraft design. Understanding these differences helps candidates target their job search effectively.

More about Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,055 per year, or $33.2 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Managed Staffing

Irvine, CA • On-site

$50 - $56/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Mechanical Engineer

Location: Onsite – Irvine, CA
Shift: 1st Shift
US Citizenship Required

About the Role

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer I to support the design, analysis, and development of mechanical equipment, systems, and components for aerospace and defense applications. This role involves hands-on engineering work, design reviews, calculations, and collaboration with cross-functional teams. Work is 100% onsite in Irvine, CA.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform mechanical design of components, assemblies, and systems.

  • Conduct engineering calculations and analyses to validate suitability and safety.

  • Support assembly, troubleshooting, testing, and repair of environmental control systems.

  • Review drawings from Drafters/Designers and provide feedback.

  • Support engineers on simple–medium complexity projects; may provide guidance to Drafters/Designers.

  • Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentation materials.

  • Collaborate with internal engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams.

  • Present design concepts to peers, engineers, and customers.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) from an accredited institution.

  • Knowledge of mechanical design principles and ASME Y14.5M GD&T standards.

  • Experience designing mechanical components/subsystems.

  • Understanding of mechanical drafting and drawing standards.

  • Familiarity with applied thermodynamics and mechanical engineering fundamentals.

  • US Citizen (mandatory for defense project eligibility).